JP2019158237A - Re-liquefier - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a re-liquefier capable of effectively re-liquefying gas evaporated from liquid.SOLUTION: A re-liquefier comprises: an admixture flow channel for permitting to flow a fluid mixture in which the plurality of channels are connected to a downstream end of one of the liquid channel and the gas channel, and the re-liquefaction promoting liquid flowing in the liquid channel and the re-liquefaction target gas flowing in the gas channel are the re-liquefaction promoting gas is promoted by the direct heat exchange between the re-liquefaction promoting liquid and the re-liquefied gas by mixing and generating a mixed fluid; and a gas cooling flow channel for permitting to flow gas cooling coolant in which the re-liquefaction target gas flowing in the gas flow channel is cooled before being mixed with the re-liquefaction promoting liquid flowing in the liquid flow path by indirect heat exchange with the re-liquefaction target gas through the separation wall. In order to suppress vaporization of the re-liquefaction promoting liquid when the re-liquefaction target gas flowing through the gas flow channel is mixed with the re-liquefaction promoting liquid flowing through the liquid flow channel.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

  The present invention relates to a reliquefaction apparatus for reliquefying gas vaporized from a liquid.

  When the liquid stored in the container is vaporized and gas is generated, the total amount of available liquid is reduced. For example, when a part of the liquefied gas such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) is vaporized in the storage tank and boil-off gas is generated, the storage amount of the liquefied gas is reduced. As a result, the total amount of available liquefied gas is reduced.

  Therefore, an apparatus for re-liquefying gas evaporated from a liquid has been proposed. For example, in the following Patent Document 1, after cooling the boil-off gas by mixing liquefied natural gas with the boil-off gas, the cooled boil-off gas is recycled using the cold heat of the liquefied natural gas in the boil-off gas liquefier. An apparatus for liquefying is disclosed.

JP 2000-146430 A

  However, the apparatus described in Patent Document 1 has a problem that it is difficult to efficiently reliquefy the boil-off gas. That is, when liquefied natural gas and boil-off gas are mixed when re-liquefying the boil-off gas, the liquefied natural gas is vaporized by the heat of the boil-off gas. In order to prevent this, it is necessary to prepare a large amount of liquefied natural gas to be mixed with the boil-off gas and to slowly mix the liquefied natural gas and the boil-off gas. Therefore, in the apparatus described in Patent Document 1, it is difficult to efficiently liquefy the boil-off gas.

  The objective of this invention is providing the reliquefaction apparatus which can reliquefy efficiently the gas vaporized from the liquid.

  Provided by the present invention is a gas that is vaporized from a liquid and is a reliquefaction target gas to be reliquefied, and the liquid that is mixed with the reliquefaction target gas, and the reliquefaction of the reliquefaction target gas A reliquefaction apparatus for reliquefying the reliquefaction target gas by mixing and directly exchanging heat with a reliquefaction promotion liquid that promotes the reliquefaction promotion liquid, including the reliquefaction target gas and the reliquefaction promotion liquid A flow path forming body having a plurality of flow paths through which a fluid flows, wherein the flow path forming body is a plurality of substrates bonded together in a stacked state in a predetermined direction. A plurality of streams provided with a plurality of grooves extending along the overlapping surface and forming at least a part of the plurality of flow paths in at least one of the overlapping surfaces of each of the two substrates overlapping in the stacking direction With a road substrate, Each of the plurality of channels is formed so as to extend along the overlapping surface, and between the liquid channel that allows the reliquefaction promoting liquid to flow and the liquid channel in the stacking direction. Adjacent to the liquid flow path through an existing partition wall, the liquid flow path is formed independently of the liquid flow path and extends along the overlapping surface, and allows the gas to be reliquefied to flow. A gas flow path that extends in the stacking direction, a mixed connection flow path that connects the liquid flow path and the gas flow path, and any one of the liquid flow path and the gas flow path Between the mixed flow path formed to extend along the overlapping surface in a state connected to the downstream end of the flow path and allowing the mixed fluid to flow, and the gas flow path in the stacking direction Through the separation wall The gas cooling refrigerant flows in order to exchange heat indirectly with the reliquefaction target gas via the separation wall by being adjacent to the gas flow path. And a gas cooling flow path that allows

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, the reliquefaction promoting liquid and the reliquefaction target gas produced by mixing the reliquefaction promoting liquid flowing in the liquid flow path and the reliquefaction target gas flowing in the gas flow path to generate a mixed fluid. Since the reliquefaction target gas is promoted by direct heat exchange between the two, the reliquefaction target gas can be reliquefied.

  Here, in the reliquefaction apparatus, the reliquefaction target gas flowing in the gas flow path is mixed with the reliquefaction promoting liquid flowing in the liquid flow path after being cooled in advance, so that the reliquefaction target gas flowing in the gas flow path Vaporization of the reliquefaction promoting liquid when the reliquefaction promoting liquid flowing through the liquid flow path is mixed. As a result, the reliquefaction target gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In addition, in the reliquefaction apparatus, the precooling of the gas to be reliquefied flowing in the gas flow path is indirectly performed through a separation wall between the gas cooling refrigerant flowing in the gas cooling flow path and the gas to be reliquefied. Since it is performed by heat exchange, it is possible to precool the liquefaction target gas flowing through the gas flow path without mixing the gas cooling refrigerant with the liquefaction target gas.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the plurality of flow path substrates are a first base overlapping surface that is the overlapping surface positioned on one side in the stacking direction and the other base in the stacking direction. A base substrate having a second base overlapping surface, which is an overlapping surface, and the base substrate bonded to the base substrate in a state of being overlapped with the first base overlapping surface, and the gas flow between the base substrate and the base substrate. A gas flow path substrate that forms a path, a fluid flow path substrate that is bonded to the base substrate in a state of being superimposed on the second base overlapping surface, and that forms the liquid flow path between the base substrate and The gas flow path substrate is joined to the gas flow path substrate in a state of being superimposed on the overlapping surface located on one side in the stacking direction, and the gas cooling substrate is bonded to the gas flow path substrate. And a gas cooling channel substrate forming the channel.

  In the above aspect, since the flow path is formed between the two flow path substrates stacked in the stacking direction, the number of substrates necessary for forming the flow path can be reduced.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are provided on the first base overlapping surface, respectively, and the gas flow channel grooves forming the gas flow channel, A liquid channel groove formed on the second base overlapping surface and forming the liquid channel, wherein the mixed connection channel is provided so as to penetrate the base substrate in the stacking direction, and the gas The partition wall formed between the channel and the liquid channel is formed by a mixing hole that connects the channel and the liquid channel, and the partition wall existing between the gas channel and the liquid channel in the stacking direction includes the base substrate. It is formed by a portion located between the gas flow channel groove and the liquid flow channel groove in the stacking direction.

  In the above aspect, the gas channel groove provided on the first base overlapping surface and the liquid channel groove provided on the second base overlapping surface of the base substrate simply by forming the mixing hole in the base substrate. Can communicate with each other. As a result, it is only necessary to perform processing necessary for forming the gas flow path, the liquid flow path, and the mixing connection flow path on the base substrate.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the plurality of grooves provided in the gas cooling flow path substrate are provided in the first base overlapping surface, respectively, to form the gas cooling flow path. The separation wall including a channel and existing between the gas channel and the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction is a portion of the gas channel substrate adjacent to the gas channel groove in the stacking direction. Is formed by.

  In the above aspect, since it is not necessary to form a groove for forming a flow path in the gas flow path substrate, the thickness of the gas flow path substrate itself can be reduced. As a result, indirect heat exchange between the reliquefaction target gas flowing in the gas flow path and the gas cooling refrigerant flowing in the gas cooling flow path via the separation wall can be efficiently performed.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the mixing channel is adjacent to the gas cooling channel via a separation wall existing between the mixing channel and the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction. Connected to the downstream end of the gas flow path so as to extend continuously from the gas flow path, and the gas cooling flow path is connected to the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing flow path. The mixed fluid flowing in the mixed flow path is cooled by cooling the mixed fluid flowing in the mixed flow path through indirect heat exchange with the gas-cooled refrigerant through the separation wall. The gas cooling refrigerant is allowed to flow so that the reliquefaction of the gas to be reliquefied is promoted.

  In the above aspect, the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing channel is cooled by indirect heat exchange via the separation wall between the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing channel and the gas cooling refrigerant flowing through the gas cooling channel. Therefore, reliquefaction of the reliquefaction target gas contained in the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing channel is promoted. As a result, the reliquefaction target gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are each provided to be continuous with the gas flow path groove on the first base overlapping surface, and the mixing flow path And the separation wall existing between the mixing channel and the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction is the mixed flow channel in the stacking direction of the gas channel substrate. It is formed by a portion adjacent to the road groove.

  In the above aspect, since the mixing channel groove forming the mixing channel is formed on the first base overlapping surface of the base substrate, the gas channel, the liquid channel, the mixing connection channel, and the mixing channel are provided. It is only necessary to perform processing necessary for forming the base substrate.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, each of the plurality of flow paths is formed to extend along the overlapping surface, and is the liquid added to the mixed fluid flowing through the mixed flow path, An additional liquid flow path for allowing a reliquefaction promoting additional liquid to flow through the direct heat exchange with the reliquefied target gas contained in the mixed fluid to allow the reliquefaction promoting additional liquid to flow; and An additional mixing connection channel that is formed to extend in the stacking direction and connects the mixing channel and the additional liquid channel, and a partition wall that exists between the additional liquid channel in the stacking direction Adjacent to the additional liquid flow path and provided independently of the additional liquid flow path and connected to the downstream end of the mixing flow path so as to extend along the overlapping surface, liquid Further comprising a liquid additional mixing channel that allows the pressurized fluid mixture flow.

  In the above aspect, since the re-liquefaction promoting additional liquid flowing in the additional liquid channel is further mixed with the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing channel, the re-liquefied target gas contained in the mixed fluid and the re-mixed liquid are mixed. Liquefaction promotion The reliquefaction of the gas to be reliquefied contained in the mixed fluid can be promoted by direct heat exchange with the additional liquid. As a result, the reliquefaction target gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are each provided in the second base overlapping surface, and an additional liquid channel groove that forms the additional liquid channel. An additional mixing channel groove that is provided to be continuous with the mixing channel groove on the first base overlapping surface and forms the liquid additional mixing channel, The base substrate is provided so as to penetrate in the stacking direction, and is formed by an additional mixing hole that connects the mixing channel groove and the additional liquid channel groove. The partition wall existing between the liquid additional mixing channel is formed by a portion of the base substrate located between the additional liquid channel groove and the additional mixing channel groove in the stacking direction. The separation wall existing between the liquid additional mixing channel and the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction is formed by a portion of the gas channel substrate adjacent to the additional mixing channel groove in the stacking direction. Is formed.

  In the above aspect, the additional liquid flow channel forming the additional liquid flow channel is provided on the second base overlapping surface of the base substrate, and the additional mixing flow channel forming the liquid additional mixing flow channel is the base substrate. Are provided on the first base overlapping surface in the above, forming a gas flow path, a liquid flow path, a mixing connection flow path, a mixing flow path, an additional liquid flow path, an additional mixing connection flow path, and a liquid additional mixing flow path It is only necessary to perform processing necessary for the base substrate.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the liquid additional mixing channel is adjacent to the gas cooling channel via a separation wall existing between the liquid cooling channel and the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction. Connected to the downstream end of the mixing channel so as to be provided independently of the channel and continuously extending from the mixing channel, and the gas cooling channel flows through the liquid additional mixing channel The liquid addition mixed fluid is cooled by cooling the liquid addition mixed fluid flowing through the liquid addition mixing flow path through indirect heat exchange between the liquid addition mixed fluid and the gas cooling refrigerant through the separation wall. The gas cooling refrigerant is allowed to flow so as to promote reliquefaction of the reliquefaction target gas contained in the liquid additional mixed fluid flowing through the mixing flow path.

  In the above aspect, the liquid additional mixing flow channel flows by indirect heat exchange via the separation wall between the liquid additional mixing fluid flowing through the liquid additional mixing flow channel and the gas cooling refrigerant flowing through the gas cooling flow channel. Since the liquid additional mixed fluid is cooled, the reliquefaction of the reliquefaction target gas contained in the liquid additional mixed fluid flowing through the liquid additional mixed flow path is promoted. As a result, the reliquefaction target gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the mixing channel is connected to a downstream end of the liquid channel so as to continuously extend from the liquid channel, and the plurality of channels are respectively In the laminating direction, adjacent to the mixing channel via an isolation wall existing between the mixing channel and the mixing channel, and provided independently of the mixing channel, and the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing channel The mixed fluid flowing in the mixed flow path is cooled by indirect heat exchange through the isolation wall therebetween, whereby the reliquefied gas contained in the mixed fluid flowing in the mixed flow path is re-recovered. Further included is a fluid cooling channel that allows the fluid cooling refrigerant to flow to facilitate liquefaction.

  In the above aspect, the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing channel is cooled by indirect heat exchange via the separation wall between the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing channel and the fluid cooling refrigerant flowing in the fluid cooling channel. Therefore, reliquefaction of the reliquefaction target gas contained in the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing channel is promoted. As a result, the reliquefaction target gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are each provided so as to be continuous with the liquid channel groove on the second base overlapping surface, and the mixing channel And the separation wall existing between the mixing channel and the fluid cooling channel in the stacking direction is the mixed flow channel in the stacking direction of the fluid channel substrate. It is formed by a portion adjacent to the road groove.

  In the above aspect, since the mixing channel groove forming the mixing channel is formed on the second base overlapping surface of the base substrate, the gas channel, the liquid channel, the mixing connection channel, and the mixing channel are provided. It is only necessary to perform processing necessary for forming the base substrate.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, each of the plurality of flow paths is adjacent to the gas cooling flow path via a separation wall existing between the gas cooling flow path in the stacking direction. The gas that is provided independently of the cooling flow path and extends along the overlapping surface, and is added to the mixed fluid flowing through the mixed flow path, and is included in the mixed fluid An additional gas channel that allows a reliquefied additional target gas to be reliquefied by direct heat exchange with the accelerating liquid; and the mixing channel that is formed to extend in the stacking direction. And the additional gas flow path adjacent to the additional gas flow path through a partition wall existing between the additional gas flow path and the additional gas flow path in the stacking direction. Flow And a gas additional mixing channel that is formed to extend along the overlapping surface in a state of being connected to the downstream end of the mixing channel and that allows the gas additional mixed fluid to flow therethrough And further including.

  In the above aspect, the reliquefaction additional target gas flowing in the additional gas flow channel is further mixed with the mixed fluid flowing in the mixed flow channel, so that the reliquefaction promoting liquid contained in the mixed fluid is mixed with the mixed fluid. The reliquefaction of the reliquefaction additional target gas mixed into the mixed fluid can be promoted by direct heat exchange with the liquefied additional target gas. As a result, the reliquefaction additional target gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  Here, in the above aspect, the gas to be reliquefied is divided into the reliquefied target gas and the reliquefied additional target gas and sequentially mixed with the reliquefaction promoting liquid, so that the reliquefied target gas and the reliquefied additional gas are added. Compared with the case where the target gas is mixed with the reliquefaction promoting liquid at once, the amount of the reliquefaction target gas and the reliquefaction additional target gas mixed with each reliquefaction promoting liquid can be reduced. Therefore, vaporization of the reliquefaction promoting liquid when each of the reliquefaction target gas and the reliquefaction additional target gas is mixed with the reliquefaction promoting liquid can be suppressed. As a result, the reliquefaction target gas and the reliquefaction additional target gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are each provided in the first base overlapping surface, and an additional gas channel groove that forms the additional gas channel. An additional mixing channel groove provided to be continuous with the mixing channel groove on the second base overlapping surface and forming the gas additional mixing channel, and the additional mixing connection channel is A base substrate is provided so as to penetrate in the stacking direction, and is formed by an additional mixing hole that connects the mixing channel groove and the additional gas channel groove, and in the stacking direction, the additional gas channel and the The partition wall existing between the gas additional mixing channel is formed by a portion of the base substrate located between the additional gas channel groove and the additional mixing channel groove in the stacking direction. The isolation wall existing between the gas additional mixing channel and the fluid cooling channel in the stacking direction is formed by a portion of the gas channel substrate adjacent to the additional mixing channel groove in the stacking direction. Is formed.

  In the above aspect, the additional gas channel groove that forms the additional gas channel is provided on the first base overlapping surface of the base substrate, and the additional mixing channel groove that forms the gas additional mixing channel is the base substrate. Are provided on the second base overlapping surface in the above, forming a gas flow path, a liquid flow path, a mixing connection flow path, a mixing flow path, an additional gas flow path, an additional mixing connection flow path, and a gas additional mixing flow path It is only necessary to perform processing necessary for the base substrate.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the gas additional mixing channel is adjacent to the fluid cooling channel via an isolation wall existing between the gas cooling channel and the fluid cooling channel in the stacking direction. Connected to the downstream end of the mixing channel so as to be provided independently of the channel and continuously extending from the mixing channel, the fluid cooling channel flows through the gas additional mixing channel The gas addition mixed fluid is cooled by cooling the gas addition mixed fluid flowing through the gas addition mixing flow path by indirect heat exchange between the gas addition mixed fluid and the fluid cooling refrigerant through the isolation wall. The fluid cooling refrigerant is allowed to flow so that reliquefaction of the reliquefaction additional target gas included in the gas additional mixed fluid flowing through the mixing flow path is promoted.

  In the above aspect, the gas additional mixing flow channel flows through indirect heat exchange via the separation wall between the gas additional mixed fluid flowing in the gas additional mixing flow channel and the fluid cooling refrigerant flowing in the fluid cooling flow channel. Since the gas additional mixed fluid is cooled, the reliquefaction of the reliquefaction additional target gas contained in the gas additional mixed fluid flowing through the gas additional mixed flow path is promoted. As a result, the reliquefaction additional target gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  According to the reliquefaction apparatus of the present invention, the gas vaporized from the liquid can be efficiently reliquefied.

It is a schematic diagram which shows schematic structure of the reliquefaction system of boil off gas provided with the reliquefaction apparatus by the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows schematic structure of the reliquefaction apparatus by the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a top view which shows the state which looked at the 1st board | substrate among the several board | substrates with which the reliquefaction apparatus shown in FIG. 2 is provided from the lamination direction of the several board | substrate shown in FIG. It is a top view which shows the state which looked at the 1st board | substrate among the several board | substrates with which the reliquefaction apparatus shown in FIG. 2 is provided from the upper side of the lamination direction of the several board | substrate shown in FIG. It is a top view which shows the state which looked at the 4th board | substrate among the several board | substrates with which the reliquefaction apparatus shown in FIG. 2 is provided from the lamination direction of the several board | substrate shown in FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows schematic structure of the reliquefaction apparatus by the 2nd Embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[First Embodiment]
A liquefied natural gas reliquefaction system 20 including a reliquefaction apparatus 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a liquefied natural gas reliquefaction system 20.

  The liquefied natural gas reliquefaction system 20 is for reliquefying boil-off gas that is gas generated by vaporization of liquefied natural gas that is liquid stored in the storage tank 30.

  In the liquefied natural gas reliquefaction system 20, boil-off gas generated in the storage tank 30 flows through the circulation passage 40 connected to the storage tank 30. The boil-off gas flowing through the circulation channel 40 is compressed by the compressor 50 provided in the middle of the circulation channel 40 and then reliquefied by the reliquefaction apparatus 10 provided in the middle of the circulation channel 40. The liquefied natural gas produced by re-liquefying the boil-off gas returns to the storage tank 30 after flowing through the circulation channel 40.

  In the liquefied natural gas reliquefaction system 20, liquefied natural gas stored in the storage tank 30 flows through a supply flow path 60 connected to the storage tank 30. The liquefied natural gas flowing through the supply channel 60 is sent out of the storage tank 30 by a pump 70 provided in the middle of the supply channel 60 and then supplied to the reliquefaction apparatus 10 and the cooling channel 80.

  Specifically, the supply flow path 60 is branched into two flow paths 60A and 60B in the middle thereof. The flow path 60 </ b> A is connected to the reliquefaction device 10. A valve 61 is provided in the middle of the flow path 60A. The valve 61 can switch between a state in which liquefied natural gas is supplied to the reliquefaction device 10 and a state in which it is not supplied. The channel 60 </ b> B is connected to the cooling channel 80. A valve 62 is provided in the middle of the flow path 60B. The valve 62 can switch between a state where liquefied natural gas is supplied to the cooling flow path 80 and a state where it is not supplied.

  The liquefied natural gas supplied to the reliquefaction apparatus 10 performs direct heat exchange with the boil-off gas flowing through the reliquefaction apparatus 10. The liquefied natural gas supplied to the cooling channel 80 performs indirect heat exchange with the boil-off gas flowing through the reliquefaction apparatus 10.

  Instead of the liquefied natural gas supplied from the storage tank 30 via the supply flow path 60, liquid nitrogen or the like that can be used for cooling at a lower temperature than the boil-off gas may flow through the cooling flow path 80. Specifically, the cooling flow path 80 is branched into two flow paths 80 </ b> A and 80 </ b> B in the middle and downstream of the reliquefaction apparatus 10. A valve 81 is provided in the middle of the flow path 80A. A valve 82 is provided in the middle of the flow path 80B. The flow path 80 </ b> B is connected to the storage tank 30. When a refrigerant such as liquid nitrogen (different from liquefied natural gas) flows through the cooling flow path 80, the valve 62 provided in the middle of the flow path 60B and the valve 82 provided in the middle of the flow path 80B are closed. In this state, the valve 81 provided in the middle of the flow path 80A is opened. Thus, a refrigerant such as liquid nitrogen (different from liquefied natural gas) is prevented from flowing into the storage tank 30. When liquefied natural gas flows through the cooling flow path 80, the valve 62 provided in the middle of the flow path 60B and the valve 82 provided in the middle of the flow path 80B are opened, and the flow path 80A A valve 81 provided on the way is closed.

  The reliquefaction apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a schematic configuration of the reliquefaction apparatus 10.

  The reliquefaction apparatus 10 is an apparatus that reliquefies boil-off gas that is gas evaporated from liquefied natural gas that is liquid. The reliquefaction apparatus 10 includes a flow path forming body 12. The flow path forming body 12 is formed with a plurality of flow paths for circulating a plurality of fluids including a boil-off gas that is a gas to be reliquefied and a liquefied natural gas that is a liquid that promotes reliquefaction. The flow path forming body 12 has a structure in which a plurality of flow path substrates 14 are joined together in a stacked state. At least one of the overlapping surfaces of each of the two flow path substrates 14 that overlap each other in the stacking direction of the plurality of flow path substrates 14 among the plurality of flow path substrates 14 extends along the overlapping surface, and A plurality of grooves forming at least a part of the flow path are provided.

  The plurality of flow path substrates 14 include a base substrate 141, a gas flow path substrate 142, a fluid flow path substrate 143, and a gas cooling flow path substrate 144. 2 shows the case where the flow path forming body 12 includes only one unit including the base substrate 141, the gas flow path substrate 142, the fluid flow path substrate 143, and the gas cooling flow path substrate 144. The path forming body 12 may have a structure in which a plurality of units are stacked.

  Each of the base substrate 141, the gas flow path substrate 142, the fluid flow path substrate 143, and the gas cooling flow path substrate 144 has a rectangular plate shape as a whole. Each of the base substrate 141, the gas channel substrate 142, the fluid channel substrate 143, and the gas cooling channel substrate 144 is one side in the stacking direction (vertical direction in FIG. 2) in which the plurality of channel substrates 14 are stacked ( It has the 1st surface located in the upper side in FIG. 2, and the 2nd surface located in the other side (lower side in FIG. 2). The base substrate 141, the gas channel substrate 142, the fluid channel substrate 143, and the gas cooling channel substrate 144 have the same shape in a plan view.

  The base substrate 141 has a first base overlapping surface 14S1 as an overlapping surface made of the first surface, and a second base overlapping surface 14S2 as an overlapping surface made of the second surface. The gas flow path substrate 142 is bonded to the base substrate 141 in a state where the overlapping surface formed of the second surface is overlapped with the first base overlapping surface 14S1 of the base substrate 141. The fluid flow path substrate 143 is joined to the base substrate 141 in a state in which the overlapping surface including the first surface is overlapped with the second base overlapping surface 14S2 of the base substrate 141. The gas cooling flow path substrate 144 is joined to the gas flow path substrate 142 in a state in which the overlapping surface formed of the second surface is overlapped with the overlapping surface formed of the first surface of the gas flow path substrate 142.

  A plurality of flow paths are formed in the flow path forming body 12. The plurality of channels include a plurality of fluid channels 16 and a plurality of gas cooling channels 18. Each of the plurality of fluid flow paths 16 is a flow path for mixing and circulating the boil-off gas and the liquefied natural gas. The plurality of gas cooling channels 18 are formed adjacent to the plurality of fluid channels 16 in the stacking direction of the plurality of channel substrates 14, and each distributes the refrigerant.

  The plurality of fluid flow paths 16 are formed to extend in parallel with each other. The plurality of fluid flow paths 16 are respectively an LNG flow path 161 as a liquid flow path, a BOG flow path 162 as a gas flow path, a mixing connection flow path 163, a mixing flow path 164, and an additional liquid flow path. The additional LNG flow path 165, the additional mixing connection flow path 166, and the liquid additional mixing flow path 167 are included.

  The liquefied natural gas as the reliquefaction promoting liquid flows through the LNG channel 161 as the liquid channel. That is, the upstream end of the LNG channel 161 is connected to the supply channel 60 through which the liquefied natural gas stored in the storage tank 30 flows. The LNG flow path 161 as the liquid flow path extends in a direction orthogonal to the stacking direction (vertical direction in FIG. 2) of the plurality of flow path substrates 14, that is, the overlapping surface of the flow path substrate 14 Is formed so as to extend along.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the LNG flow channel 161 is a liquid formed so as to open to the second base overlapping surface 14S2 of the base substrate 141 and extend along the second base overlapping surface 14S2. This is realized by the LNG flow channel 14A as the flow channel. Specifically, the LNG channel 161 is formed in the opening of the LNG channel groove 14A (the second base overlapping surface 14S2 in the base substrate 141) in a state where the base substrate 141 and the fluid channel substrate 143 are joined. The opening) is covered with the fluid flow path substrate 143 to form a tunnel shape. In other words, the LNG flow path 161 is defined between the inner surface of the LNG flow path groove 14 </ b> A and the overlapping surface of the fluid flow path substrate 143. Note that the liquid flow channel groove may be formed in at least one of the base substrate 141 and the fluid flow channel substrate 143.

  A boil-off gas that is a gas to be reliquefied and vaporized from the liquefied natural gas flows through the BOG channel 162 as a gas channel. That is, the upstream end of the BOG flow path 162 is connected to the circulation flow path 40 through which the boil-off gas generated in the storage tank 30 flows. The BOG flow path 162 is formed so as to be adjacent to the LNG flow path 161 in the stacking direction of the flow path substrates 14 (vertical direction in FIG. 2). The BOG flow path 162 extends in a direction orthogonal to the stacking direction of the flow path substrates 14 (vertical direction in FIG. 2), that is, extends along the overlapping surface of the flow path substrate 14. Is formed.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the BOG flow path 162 opens to the first base overlapping surface 14S1 of the base substrate 141 and is formed so as to extend along the first base overlapping surface 14S1. This is realized by the BOG flow channel 14B as the flow channel. Specifically, the boil-off gas channel 162 is formed in the opening of the BOG channel groove 14B (the first base overlapping surface 14S1 in the base substrate 141) in a state where the base substrate 141 and the gas channel substrate 142 are joined. Are formed in a tunnel shape by being covered with the gas flow path substrate 142. In other words, the BOG flow path 162 is defined between the inner surface of the BOG flow path groove 14 </ b> B and the overlapping surface of the gas flow path substrate 142. The first liquid flow channel groove may be formed in at least one of the base substrate 141 and the gas flow channel substrate 142.

  A partition wall 1411 exists between the LNG channel 161 and the BOG channel 162. The partition wall 1411 separates the LNG channel 161 and the BOG channel 162 so that the LNG channel 161 and the boil-off gas channel 162 are provided independently. The partition wall 1411 is formed by a portion of the base substrate 141 located between the LNG flow channel 14A and the BOG flow channel 14B.

  The mixed connection channel 163 is formed so as to extend in the stacking direction (vertical direction in FIG. 2) of the plurality of channel substrates 14, and the liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) and the BOG channel flowing in the LNG channel 161. The LNG flow path 161 and the BOG flow path 162 are connected so that the boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing through 162 is mixed. The mixing connection channel 163 connects the downstream end of the BOG channel 162 and the downstream end of the LNG channel 161. The liquefied natural gas that has flowed through the LNG flow path 161 flows through the mixed connection flow path 163 toward the BOG flow path 162.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the mixing connection channel 163 is formed by a mixing hole 14 </ b> C that penetrates the base substrate 141 in the stacking direction of the plurality of channel substrates 14 (vertical direction in FIG. 2). .

  In the mixing channel 164, a mixed fluid generated by mixing liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) flowing through the LNG channel 161 and boil-off gas (gas to be reliquefied) flowing through the boil-off gas channel 162. Flows. The mixing channel 164 is connected to the downstream end of the BOG channel 162 so as to continuously extend from the BOG channel 162. The mixing channel 164 extends in a direction orthogonal to the stacking direction of the plurality of channel substrates 14 (vertical direction in FIG. 2), that is, extends along the overlapping surface of the channel substrate 14. Is formed.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the mixing channel 164 opens to the first base overlapping surface 14S1 of the base substrate 141 and is formed so as to extend along the first base overlapping surface 14S1. This is realized by the flow channel 14D. Specifically, the mixing channel 164 is formed in the opening of the mixing channel groove 14D (the first base overlapping surface 14S1 in the base substrate 141 in a state where the base substrate 141 and the gas channel substrate 142 are joined). The opening) is covered with the gas flow path substrate 142 to form a tunnel shape. In other words, the mixing channel 163 is defined between the inner surface of the mixing channel groove 14 </ b> D and the overlapping surface of the gas channel substrate 142. The upstream end of the mixing channel groove 14 </ b> D is connected to the downstream end of the BOG channel groove 14 </ b> B that forms the BOG channel 162. That is, the mixing channel groove 14D is formed continuously with the boil-off gas channel groove 14B. The mixing channel groove may be formed on at least one of the base substrate 141 and the gas channel substrate 142.

  The liquefied natural gas as the reliquefaction promoting additional liquid flows through the additional LNG channel 165 as the additional liquid channel. That is, the upstream end of the additional LNG flow path 165 is connected to the supply flow path 60 through which the liquefied natural gas stored in the storage tank 30 flows. The additional LNG channel 165 is formed at the same position as the LNG channel 161 in the stacking direction of the plurality of channel substrates 14 (up and down direction in FIG. 2). The additional LNG channel 165 is formed at a position different from the LNG channel 161 in plan view. The additional LNG flow path 165 is formed to extend in a direction orthogonal to the stacking direction of the plurality of flow path substrates 14, that is, to extend along the overlapping surface of the flow path substrate 14.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the additional LNG flow path 165 is formed to open to the second base overlapping surface 14S2 of the base substrate 141 and extend along the second base overlapping surface 14S2. This is realized by an additional LNG flow channel 14E as an additional liquid flow channel. Specifically, the additional LNG channel 165 is formed in the opening of the additional LNG channel groove 14E (the second base overlapping surface 14S2 of the base substrate 141 in the state where the base substrate 141 and the fluid channel substrate 143 are joined). Are formed in a tunnel shape by being covered with the fluid flow path substrate 143. In other words, the additional LNG channel 165 is defined between the inner surface of the additional LNG channel groove 14E and the overlapping surface of the fluid channel substrate 143. Note that the additional liquid channel groove may be formed in at least one of the base substrate 141 and the fluid channel substrate 143.

  The additional mixing connection channel 166 is formed so as to extend in the stacking direction of the plurality of channel substrates 14 (vertical direction in FIG. 2), and the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing channel 164 (that is, liquefaction flowing in the LNG channel 161). A mixture of natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) and boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing through the BOG flow channel 162 and liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting additional liquid) flowing through the additional LNG flow channel 165 are mixed. In this manner, the mixing channel 164 and the additional LNG channel 165 are connected. The additional mixing connection channel 166 connects the downstream end of the mixing channel 164 and the downstream end of the additional LNG channel 165. The liquefied natural gas that has flowed through the additional LNG flow path 165 flows through the additional mixing connection flow path 166 toward the mixing flow path 164.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the additional mixing connection channel 166 is formed by an additional mixing hole 14 </ b> F that penetrates the base substrate 141 in the stacking direction of the plurality of channel substrates 14 (vertical direction in FIG. 2). ing.

  In the liquid additional mixing channel 167, the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing channel 164 (that is, liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) flowing in the LNG channel 161 and boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing in the BOG channel 162 are provided. And a liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting additional liquid) flowing through the additional LNG flow path 165 is mixed to flow a liquid additional mixed fluid generated. The liquid additional mixing channel 167 is connected to the downstream end of the mixing channel 164 so as to continuously extend from the mixing channel 164. The liquid additional mixing channel 167 extends in a direction orthogonal to the stacking direction of the plurality of channel substrates 14 (vertical direction in FIG. 2), that is, along the overlapping surface of the channel substrate 14. It is formed to extend.

  As shown also in FIG. 4, the liquid additional mixing channel 167 is formed to open to the first base overlapping surface 14S1 of the base substrate 141 and extend along the first base overlapping surface 14S1. This is realized by the additional mixing channel groove 14G. Specifically, the liquid additional mixing channel 167 is formed in the opening of the additional mixing channel groove 14G (on the first base overlapping surface 14S1 in the base substrate 141) in a state where the base substrate 141 and the gas channel substrate 142 are joined. The formed opening) is covered with the gas flow path substrate 142 to form a tunnel shape. In other words, a liquid additional mixing channel 167 is defined between the inner surface of the additional mixing channel groove 14G and the overlapping surface of the gas channel substrate 142. The upstream end of the additional mixing channel groove 14G is connected to the downstream end of the mixing channel groove 14D forming the mixing channel 164. That is, the additional mixing channel groove 14G is formed continuously with the mixing channel groove 14D. The additional mixing channel groove may be formed on at least one of the base substrate 141 and the gas channel substrate 142.

  A partition wall 1412 exists between the additional LNG channel 165 and the liquid additional mixing channel 167. The partition wall 1412 separates the additional LNG channel 165 and the liquid additional mixing channel 167 so that the additional LNG channel 165 and the liquid additional mixing channel 167 are provided independently. The partition wall 1411 is formed by a portion of the base substrate 141 located between the additional LNG flow channel 14E and the additional mixing flow channel 14G.

  Subsequently, the plurality of gas cooling channels 18 will be described. The plurality of gas cooling channels 18 are formed so as to extend in parallel with each other. The plurality of gas cooling channels 18 are formed so as to overlap the plurality of fluid channels 16 when viewed from the stacking direction (vertical direction in FIG. 2) of the plurality of channel substrates 14.

  A gas cooling refrigerant flows through the gas cooling channel 18. The gas cooling refrigerant may be, for example, liquefied natural gas stored in the storage tank 30, or liquid nitrogen supplied from outside and having a temperature lower than that of the boil-off gas. The gas cooling channel 18 is a boil-off gas that flows through the BOG channel 162, a mixed fluid that flows through the mixing channel 164 (that is, a liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) that flows through the LNG channel 161, and a boil-off that flows through the BOG channel 162. Gas (fluid mixed with gas (reliquefaction target gas)) and liquid additional mixed fluid flowing through the liquid additional mixing channel 167 (that is, liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) flowing through the LNG channel 161 and the BOG channel 162 The stacking direction of the plurality of flow path substrates 14 (FIG. 5) is cooled so that the flowing boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) and the liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting additional liquid) flowing in the additional LNG flow path 165 are cooled. 2 in the vertical direction) is formed adjacent to the boil-off gas channel 162, the mixing channel 164, and the liquid additional mixing channel 167. The gas cooling channel 18 is formed so as to extend in a direction orthogonal to the stacking direction of the plurality of channel substrates 14, that is, to extend along the overlapping surface of the channel substrate 14.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the gas cooling channel 18 is formed in such a manner that it opens to the overlapping surface formed of the second surface of the gas cooling channel substrate 144 and extends along the overlapping surface. This is realized by the flow channel 14H. Specifically, the gas cooling channel 18 is formed by opening the gas cooling channel groove 14H (from the second surface of the gas cooling channel substrate 144) in a state where the gas channel substrate 142 and the gas cooling channel substrate 144 are joined. The opening formed in the overlapping surface is covered with the gas flow path substrate 142 to form a tunnel shape. In other words, the gas cooling channel 18 is defined between the inner surface of the gas cooling channel groove 14 </ b> H and the overlapping surface of the gas channel substrate 142. Note that the gas cooling channel groove may be formed in at least one of the gas channel substrate 142 and the gas cooling channel substrate 144.

  A separation wall 1421 exists between the gas cooling channel 18, the BOG channel 162, the mixing channel 164, and the liquid additional mixing channel 167. The separation wall 1421 is configured so that the gas cooling channel 18, the BOG channel 162, the mixing channel 164, and the liquid additional mixing channel 167 are provided independently. The channel 164 and the liquid additional mixing channel 167 are separated. The separation wall 1421 is formed by the gas flow path substrate 142.

  Next, a boil-off gas reliquefaction method using the reliquefaction apparatus 10 will be described. In the reliquefaction apparatus 10, boil-off gas and liquefied natural gas produced by mixing boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing through the BOG flow path 162 and liquefied natural gas (re-liquefaction promoting gas) flowing through the LNG flow path 161 are mixed. The direct heat exchange with the gas promotes reliquefaction of the boil-off gas. Therefore, the boil-off gas can be reliquefied.

  Here, since the BOG flow path 162 is adjacent to the gas cooling flow path 18 via the separation wall 1421, the boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) that flows through the BOG flow path 162 and the gas cooling that flows through the gas cooling flow path 18. The boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing through the BOG flow path 162 and the liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting gas) flowing through the LNG flow path 161 by indirect heat exchange with the refrigerant through the separation wall 1421. The vaporization of the liquefied natural gas when mixing with can be suppressed. As a result, the boil-off gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus 10, since the mixing channel 164 is adjacent to the gas cooling channel 18 via the separation wall 1421, the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing channel 164 (that is, the liquefaction flowing through the LNG channel 161). A separation wall 1421 between a natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) and a boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing through the BOG flow channel 162 and a gas cooling refrigerant flowing through the gas cooling flow channel 18 is provided. Through indirect heat exchange, reliquefaction of boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) contained in the first mixed fluid is promoted. As a result, the boil-off gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  Further, in the reliquefaction apparatus 10, the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing flow path 164 (that is, liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) flowing in the LNG flow path 161 and boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing in the BOG flow path 162. The liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting additional liquid) flowing through the additional LNG flow path 165 is mixed with the mixed fluid and the added liquefied natural gas. The exchange promotes reliquefaction of the boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) contained in the mixed fluid. As a result, the boil-off gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In addition, in the reliquefaction apparatus 10, a liquid additional mixed fluid generated by mixing the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing channel 164 and the liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting additional liquid) flowing in the additional LNG channel 165 flows. Since the liquid additional mixing channel 167 is adjacent to the gas cooling channel 18 through the separation wall 1421, the liquid additional mixing fluid flowing through the liquid additional mixing channel 167 and the gas cooling refrigerant flowing through the gas cooling channel 18 Indirect heat exchange via the separation wall 1421 between them promotes reliquefaction of the boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) contained in the mixed fluid flowing in the liquid additional mixing channel 167. As a result, the boil-off gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In such a reliquefaction apparatus 10, since a flow path is formed between two flow path substrates 14 that are stacked in the stacking direction among the plurality of flow path substrates 14, it is necessary to form a flow path. The number of substrates can be reduced.

  Further, in the reliquefaction apparatus 10, since the grooves and holes necessary for forming the plurality of fluid flow paths 16 are formed only in the base substrate 141, the processing necessary for forming these grooves and holes is used as a base. It may be performed only on the substrate 141.

  Moreover, in the reliquefaction apparatus 10, since the groove | channel for forming a flow path is not formed in the gas flow path substrate 142, the thickness of the gas flow path substrate 142 itself can be made thin. As a result, indirect heat exchange between the boil-off gas flowing through the BOG flow channel 162 and the gas cooling refrigerant flowing through the gas cooling flow channel 18 via the separation wall 1421 can be efficiently performed.

[Second Embodiment]
Subsequently, a reliquefaction apparatus 10A according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the reliquefaction apparatus 10A. In FIG. 6, one side in the stacking direction (vertical direction in FIG. 6) in which the plurality of flow path substrates 14 are stacked corresponds to the lower side in FIG. 6, and the other side corresponds to the upper side in FIG.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus 10 </ b> A, as compared with the reliquefaction apparatus 10, the mixing flow path 164 is formed so as to continuously extend from the LNG flow path 161 and is connected to the downstream end of the LNG flow path 161. The boil-off gas flowing through the BOG flow path 162 flows through the mixed connection flow path 163 toward the LNG flow path 161.

  Compared to the reliquefaction apparatus 10, the reliquefaction apparatus 10A has an additional BOG flow path 165A instead of the additional LNG flow path 165. The additional BOG flow path 165A is formed between the base substrate 141 and the gas flow path substrate 142 in the same manner as the additional LNG flow path 165. That is, the additional BOG flow path 165A is formed at the same position as the BOG flow path 162 in the stacking direction of the flow path substrates 14 (vertical direction in FIG. 6). The boil-off gas flowing through the additional BOG flow path 165A flows through the additional mixing connection flow path 166 toward the mixing flow path 164.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus 10A, compared with the reliquefaction apparatus 10, the gas cooling flow path 18 has a plurality of flow paths so that the boil-off gas flowing through the BOG flow path 162 and the boil-off gas flowing through the additional BOG flow path 165A are cooled. The substrate 14 is formed so as to be adjacent to the BOG flow channel 162 and the additional BOG flow channel 165A via the separation wall 1421 in the stacking direction (vertical direction in FIG. 6).

  Compared to the reliquefaction apparatus 10, the reliquefaction apparatus 10 </ b> A has a gas additional mixing flow path 167 </ b> A instead of the liquid additional mixing flow path 167. The gas additional mixing channel 167A is formed between the base substrate 141 and the fluid channel substrate 143, similarly to the liquid additional mixing channel 167. That is, the gas additional mixing channel 167A is formed at the same position as the BOG channel 162 in the stacking direction of the plurality of channel substrates 14 (vertical direction in FIG. 6). The fluid flowing through the gas additional mixing channel 167A is a mixed fluid (a fluid obtained by mixing liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) flowing through the LNG channel 161 and boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing through the BOG channel 162). And a boil-off gas (reliquefied addition target gas) flowing through the additional BOG flow path 165A.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus 10 </ b> A, as compared with the reliquefaction apparatus 10, the plurality of flow path substrates 14 further include a fluid cooling flow path substrate 145. Similar to the base substrate 141, the fluid cooling flow path substrate 145 has a rectangular plate shape as a whole. Similar to the base substrate 141, the fluid cooling channel substrate 145 is positioned on one side (the lower side in FIG. 6) in the stacking direction (the vertical direction in FIG. 6) in which the plurality of channel substrates 14 are stacked. 1 surface and the 2nd surface located in the other side (upper side in FIG. 6). The fluid cooling flow path substrate 145 and the base substrate 141 have the same shape in plan view. The fluid cooling flow path substrate 145 is joined to the fluid flow path substrate 143 in a state where the overlap surface formed by the first surface is overlapped with the overlap surface formed by the second surface of the fluid flow path substrate 143.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus 10 </ b> A, the flow path forming body 12 further includes a plurality of fluid cooling flow paths 19 compared to the reliquefaction apparatus 10. The plurality of fluid cooling channels 19 are formed so as to extend in parallel to each other.

  A fluid cooling refrigerant flows through the fluid cooling channel 19. The fluid cooling refrigerant may be, for example, liquefied natural gas stored in the storage tank 30 or liquid nitrogen supplied from the outside. The fluid cooling flow path 19 is a mixture of a mixed fluid flowing through the mixing flow path 164 (a liquefied natural gas flowing through the LNG flow path 161 (reliquefaction promoting liquid) and a boil-off gas flowing through the BOG flow path 162 (reliquefaction target gas). Fluid) and gas additional mixed fluid flowing through the gas additional mixing channel 167A (liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) flowing through the LNG channel 161, boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing through the BOG channel 162, and additional BOG flow The mixed flow path 164 and the gas in the stacking direction (vertical direction in FIG. 6) of the plurality of flow path substrates 14 so that the boil-off gas (fluid mixed with the reliquefaction additional target gas) flowing through the path 165A is cooled. It is formed adjacent to the additional mixing channel 167A. The fluid cooling channel 19 is formed so as to extend in a direction orthogonal to the stacking direction of the plurality of channel substrates 14, that is, to extend along the overlapping surface of the channel substrate 14.

  The fluid cooling flow path 19 is realized by a fluid cooling flow path groove 14 </ b> I formed so as to open and extend along the overlapping surface composed of the second surface of the fluid cooling flow path substrate 145. Yes. Specifically, the fluid cooling channel 19 is formed by opening the fluid cooling channel groove 14I (from the second surface of the fluid cooling channel substrate 145) in a state where the fluid channel substrate 143 and the fluid cooling channel substrate 145 are joined. The opening formed in the overlapped surface) is covered with the fluid flow path substrate 143 to form a tunnel shape. In other words, the fluid cooling channel 19 is defined between the inner surface of the fluid cooling channel groove 14 </ b> I and the overlapping surface of the fluid channel substrate 143. Note that the fluid cooling channel groove may be formed in at least one of the fluid channel substrate 143 and the fluid cooling channel substrate 145.

  A separation wall 1431 exists between the fluid cooling channel 19 and the mixing channel 164 and the gas additional mixing channel 167A. The separation wall 1431 includes the fluid cooling channel 19, the mixing channel 164, and the gas additional mixing channel 167A so that the fluid cooling channel 19, the mixing channel 164, and the gas additional mixing channel 167A are provided independently. Are separated. The separation wall 1431 is formed by the fluid flow path substrate 143.

  Next, a boil-off gas reliquefaction method using such a reliquefaction apparatus 10A will be described. In the reliquefaction apparatus 10A, by direct heat exchange between the boil-off gas and the liquefied natural gas by mixing the boil-off gas flowing through the BOG flow path 162 and the liquefied natural gas flowing through the LNG flow path 161, Reliquefaction of boil-off gas is promoted. As a result, the boil-off gas can be reliquefied.

  Here, since the BOG flow path 162 is adjacent to the gas cooling flow path 18 via the separation wall 1421, the separation wall between the boil-off gas flowing through the BOG flow path 162 and the refrigerant flowing through the gas cooling flow path 18. By indirect heat exchange via 1421, vaporization of the liquefied natural gas when the boil-off gas flowing through the BOG flow channel 161 and the liquefied natural gas flowing through the LNG flow channel 162 are mixed can be suppressed. As a result, the boil-off gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  Further, in the reliquefaction apparatus 10A, since the mixing channel 164 is adjacent to the gas cooling channel 18 via the separation wall 1431, the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing channel 164 (that is, liquefaction flowing through the LNG channel 161). A separation fluid 1431 between the fluid cooling refrigerant flowing in the fluid cooling flow path 19 and the fluid mixed with natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) and boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing in the BOG flow path 162. The indirect heat exchange promotes reliquefaction of the boil-off gas contained in the mixed fluid. As a result, the boil-off gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  Further, in the reliquefaction apparatus 10A, the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing flow path 164 (that is, liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) flowing in the LNG flow path 161 and boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing in the BOG flow path 162 are used. Liquefied natural gas (liquefied natural gas contained in the mixed fluid) and additional boil-off gas produced by mixing the additional boil-off gas (reliquefied additional target gas) flowing through the additional BOG flow path 165A with respect to the fluid). Direct heat exchange between the two promotes reliquefaction of the boil-off gas added to the mixed fluid. As a result, the additional boil-off gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In addition, in the reliquefaction apparatus 10A, the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing flow path 164 (that is, liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) flowing through the LNG flow path 161 and boil-off gas flowing through the BOG flow path 162 (reliquefaction target gas). ) And the boil-off gas flowing through the additional BOG flow path 165A (ie, the liquefied natural gas (reliquefaction promoting liquid) flowing through the LNG flow path 161 and the BOG flow) A gas additional mixing channel 167A through which the boil-off gas (reliquefaction target gas) flowing through the path 162 and the boil-off gas (reliquefaction additional target gas) flowing through the additional BOG flow channel 165A flow) passes through the separation wall 1431. Since it is adjacent to the fluid cooling channel 19, it flows through the gas additional mixed fluid flowing through the gas additional mixing channel 167 A and the fluid cooling channel 19. By indirect heat exchange through the separation wall 1431 between the fluid cooling medium, re-liquefaction is promoted additional BOG contained in the gas added mixed fluid flowing through the gas additional mixing channel 167A. As a result, the additional boil-off gas can be efficiently reliquefied.

  In such a reliquefaction apparatus 10A, the same effect as that of the reliquefaction apparatus 10 can be obtained.

  Further, in the reliquefaction apparatus 10A, since the groove for forming the flow path is not formed in the fluid flow path substrate 143, the thickness of the fluid flow path substrate 143 itself can be reduced. As a result, indirect via the separation wall 1431 between the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing flow channel 164 and the gas additional mixed fluid flowing through the gas additional mixing flow channel 167A and the fluid cooling refrigerant flowing through the fluid cooling flow channel 19 Heat exchange can be performed efficiently.

  In the reliquefaction apparatus 10A, the gas to be reliquefied is divided into a boiloff gas that is a reliquefaction target gas and an additional boiloff gas that is a reliquefaction additional target gas, and is a liquefied natural gas that is a reliquefaction promoting liquid. As compared with the case where the boil-off gas that is the reliquefaction target gas and the additional boiloff gas that is the reliquefaction additional target gas are mixed at once with the liquefied natural gas that is the reliquefaction promoting liquid, It is possible to reduce the amount of the boil-off gas that is the reliquefaction target gas and the additional boil-off gas that is the reliquefaction additional target gas to the liquefied natural gas that is the reliquefaction promoting liquid. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the vaporization of the liquefied natural gas when mixing each of the boil-off gas that is the reliquefaction target gas and the additional boil-off gas that is the reliquefaction additional target gas with the liquefied natural gas that is the reliquefaction promoting liquid. As a result, it is possible to efficiently re-liquefy the boil-off gas that is the re-liquefaction target gas and the additional boil-off gas that is the re-liquefaction additional target gas.

  As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was explained in full detail, these are illustrations to the last, Comprising: This invention is not interpreted restrictively at all by description of the above-mentioned embodiment.

  For example, the position where the flow channel is formed in each flow channel substrate, the direction in which the flow channel extends, the length of the flow channel, and the like are not limited to those described in the above embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Reliquefaction apparatus 12 Channel formation body 14 Channel substrate 141 Base substrate 142 Gas channel substrate 143 Fluid channel substrate 144 Gas cooling channel substrate 145 Fluid cooling channel substrate 14A LNG channel groove 14B BOG channel groove 14C Mixing Hole 14D Mixing channel groove 14E Additional LNG channel groove 14F Additional mixing hole 14G Additional mixing channel groove 14H Gas cooling channel groove 14I Fluid cooling channel groove 16 Fluid channel 161 LNG channel 162 BOG channel 163 Mixed connection flow Channel 164 Mixing channel 165 Additional LNG channel 165A Additional BOG channel 166 Additional mixing connection channel 167 Liquid additional mixing channel 167A Gas additional mixing channel 18 Gas cooling channel 19 Fluid cooling channel

In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the plurality of grooves provided in the gas cooling flow path substrate are the overlapping surfaces of the gas cooling flow path substrate and overlapped with the gas flow path substrate. The separation wall provided between the gas flow path and the gas cooling flow path in the stacking direction includes a gas cooling flow path groove provided on the overlapping surface and forming the gas cooling flow path, The gas flow path substrate is formed by a portion adjacent to the gas flow path groove in the stacking direction.

In the reliquefaction apparatus, preferably, the plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are each provided in the second base overlapping surface, and an additional liquid channel groove that forms the additional liquid channel. A mixing channel groove that is provided to be continuous with the gas channel groove on the first base overlapping surface and forms the mixing channel; and the mixing channel groove on the first base overlapping surface. And an additional mixing channel groove that forms the liquid additional mixing channel, and the additional mixing connection channel is provided so as to penetrate the base substrate in the stacking direction, The partition wall is formed by an additional mixing hole that connects the mixing channel groove and the additional liquid channel groove, and the partition wall existing between the additional liquid channel and the liquid additional mixing channel in the stacking direction is , Formed in the stacking direction between the additional liquid channel groove and the additional mixing channel groove, and the liquid additional mixing channel and the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction. The separation wall existing between each of the gas flow path substrates is formed by a portion of the gas flow path substrate adjacent to the additional mixing flow path groove in the stacking direction.

Claims (14)

A gas to be reliquefied, which is a gas that has been vaporized from a liquid, and a reliquefaction promoting liquid that is mixed with the gas to be reliquefied and that promotes reliquefaction of the gas to be reliquefied. A re-liquefaction apparatus for re-liquefying the re-liquefaction target gas by mixing and directly exchanging heat,
A flow path forming body in which a plurality of flow paths for circulating a fluid containing the reliquefaction target gas and the reliquefaction promoting liquid are formed;
The flow path forming body is:
A plurality of substrates bonded to each other in a stacked state in a predetermined direction, and at least one of the overlapping surfaces of each of the two substrates overlapping in the stacking direction of the plurality of substrates so as to be along the overlapping surface A plurality of flow path substrates provided with a plurality of grooves extending to form at least a part of the plurality of flow paths;
Each of the plurality of flow paths is
A liquid flow path formed to extend along the overlapping surface and allowing the reliquefaction promoting liquid to flow;
Formed so as to be provided independently of the liquid flow path and to extend along the overlapping surface by being adjacent to the liquid flow path via a partition wall existing between the liquid flow path in the stacking direction. A gas flow path that allows the gas to be reliquefied to flow;
A mixed connection flow path formed to extend in the stacking direction and connecting the liquid flow path and the gas flow path;
A mixture that is formed to extend along the overlapping surface while being connected to a downstream end portion of any one of the liquid channel and the gas channel, and allows the mixed fluid to flow. A flow path;
It is provided independently of the gas flow path by being adjacent to the gas flow path via a separation wall existing between the gas flow path in the stacking direction, and the separation from the gas to be reliquefied. A re-liquefaction apparatus including a gas cooling flow path that allows a gas cooling refrigerant to flow for heat exchange indirectly through a wall. The reliquefaction device according to claim 1,
The plurality of flow path substrates are:
A base substrate having a first base overlapping surface that is the overlapping surface located on one side in the stacking direction and a second base overlapping surface that is the overlapping surface positioned on the other side in the stacking direction When,
A gas flow path substrate that is bonded to the base substrate in a state of being superimposed on the first base overlapping surface, and that forms the gas flow path between the base substrate,
A fluid flow path substrate that is bonded to the base substrate in a state of being superimposed on the second base overlapping surface, and forms the liquid flow path between the base substrate,
The gas flow path substrate is joined to the gas flow path substrate in a state of being overlapped with the overlapping surface located on one side in the stacking direction, and the gas cooling flow path is interposed between the gas flow path substrate and the gas flow path substrate. A reliquefaction apparatus including a gas cooling flow path substrate to be formed. A reliquefaction device according to claim 2,
The plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are respectively
A gas channel groove provided on the first base overlapping surface and forming the gas channel;
A liquid channel groove provided on the second base overlapping surface and forming the liquid channel;
The mixing connection channel is provided so as to penetrate the base substrate in the stacking direction, and is formed by a mixing hole that connects the gas channel groove and the liquid channel groove,
The partition wall existing between the gas flow channel and the liquid flow channel in the stacking direction is located between the gas flow channel groove and the liquid flow channel groove in the stacking direction of the base substrate. A reliquefaction device formed by parts. The reliquefaction device according to claim 3,
The plurality of grooves provided in the gas cooling flow path substrate are respectively
A gas cooling channel groove provided on the first base overlapping surface and forming the gas cooling channel;
The separation wall existing between the gas flow path and the gas cooling flow path in the stacking direction is formed by a portion of the gas flow path substrate adjacent to the gas flow path groove in the stacking direction. , Reliquefaction equipment. The reliquefaction apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The mixing channel is provided independently of the gas cooling channel by being adjacent to the gas cooling channel via a separation wall existing between the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction and the gas Connected to the downstream end of the gas flow path so as to extend continuously from the flow path,
The gas cooling channel cools the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing channel by indirect heat exchange via the separation wall between the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing channel and the gas cooling refrigerant. Thus, the reliquefaction apparatus permits the gas cooling refrigerant to flow so as to promote reliquefaction of the reliquefaction target gas contained in the mixed fluid flowing through the mixing flow channel. The reliquefaction device according to claim 5,
The plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are respectively
The first base overlapping surface further includes a mixing channel groove provided to be continuous with the gas channel groove and forming the mixing channel,
The separation wall existing between the mixing channel and the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction is formed by a portion of the gas channel substrate adjacent to the mixing channel groove in the stacking direction. , Reliquefaction equipment. The reliquefaction apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6,
Each of the plurality of flow paths is
Directly between the liquid to be reliquefied and the liquid added to the mixed fluid flowing in the mixed flow path and extending along the overlapping surface and included in the mixed fluid An additional liquid flow path that allows a reliquefaction promoting additional liquid to flow through the heat exchange to promote reliquefaction of the gas to be reliquefied,
An additional mixing connection channel formed so as to extend in the laminating direction and connecting the mixing channel and the additional liquid channel;
It is provided independently of the additional liquid channel by being adjacent to the additional liquid channel via a partition wall existing between the additional liquid channel in the stacking direction and the downstream end of the mixing channel A re-liquefaction apparatus further comprising: a liquid additional mixing channel that is formed so as to extend along the overlapping surface in a state of being connected to the liquid and allows the liquid additional mixed fluid to flow. The reliquefaction device according to claim 7,
The plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are respectively
An additional liquid channel groove provided on the second base overlapping surface and forming the additional liquid channel;
An additional mixing channel groove that is provided to be continuous with the mixing channel groove on the first base overlapping surface and forms the liquid additional mixing channel;
The additional mixing connection channel is
Provided so as to penetrate the base substrate in the stacking direction, and formed by an additional mixing hole connecting the mixing channel groove and the additional liquid channel groove;
The partition wall that exists between the additional liquid channel and the liquid additional mixing channel in the stacking direction includes the additional liquid channel groove and the additional mixing channel groove in the stacking direction of the base substrate. Formed by the part located between
The separation wall that exists between the liquid additional mixing channel and the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction is formed by a portion of the gas channel substrate that is adjacent to the additional mixing channel groove in the stacking direction. Reliquefaction equipment. Reliquefaction apparatus according to claim 7 or 8,
The liquid additional mixing channel is provided independently of the gas cooling channel by being adjacent to the gas cooling channel via a separation wall existing between the liquid cooling channel and the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction. Connected to the downstream end of the mixing channel so as to extend continuously from the mixing channel,
The gas cooling flow path is formed by indirect heat exchange between the liquid additional mixed fluid flowing through the liquid additional mixing flow path and the gas cooling refrigerant through the separation wall. The gas cooling refrigerant flows so that the re-liquefaction of the re-liquefaction target gas contained in the liquid additional mixed fluid flowing through the liquid additional mixing fluid channel is promoted by cooling the flowing liquid additional mixed fluid. Allow re-liquefaction equipment. The reliquefaction apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The mixing channel is connected to the downstream end of the liquid channel so as to continuously extend from the liquid channel,
Each of the plurality of flow paths is
In the laminating direction, adjacent to the mixing channel via an isolation wall existing between the mixing channel and the mixing channel, and provided independently of the mixing channel, and the mixed fluid flowing in the mixing channel The mixed fluid flowing in the mixed flow path is cooled by indirect heat exchange through the isolation wall therebetween, whereby the reliquefied gas contained in the mixed fluid flowing in the mixed flow path is re-recovered. A reliquefaction device further comprising a fluid cooling channel that allows fluid cooling refrigerant to flow to facilitate liquefaction. A reliquefaction device according to claim 10,
The plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are respectively
A mixing channel groove provided to be continuous with the liquid channel groove on the second base overlapping surface and forming the mixing channel;
The isolation wall existing between the mixing channel and the fluid cooling channel in the stacking direction is formed by a portion of the fluid channel substrate adjacent to the mixing channel groove in the stacking direction. , Reliquefaction equipment. The reliquefaction apparatus according to claim 10 or 11,
Each of the plurality of flow paths is
Adjacent to the gas cooling channel via a separation wall existing between the gas cooling channel in the stacking direction and provided independently of the gas cooling channel and extending along the overlapping surface. The gas added to the mixed fluid flowing in the mixed flow path, and subject to reliquefaction by direct heat exchange with the reliquefaction promoting liquid contained in the mixed fluid An additional gas flow path that allows the re-liquefied additional target gas to flow,
An additional mixing connection channel formed to extend in the stacking direction and connecting the mixing channel and the additional gas channel;
It is provided independently of the additional gas channel by being adjacent to the additional gas channel via a partition wall existing between the additional gas channel and the downstream end of the mixing channel in the stacking direction A re-liquefaction apparatus, further comprising: a gas addition mixing channel that is formed to extend along the overlapping surface in a state of being connected to the gas, and that allows the gas addition mixing fluid to flow. The reliquefaction device according to claim 12,
The plurality of grooves provided in the base substrate are respectively
An additional gas channel groove provided on the first base overlapping surface and forming the additional gas channel;
An additional mixing channel groove that is provided to be continuous with the mixing channel groove on the second base overlapping surface and forms the gas additional mixing channel;
The additional mixing connection channel is
Provided so as to penetrate the base substrate in the stacking direction, and formed by an additional mixing hole connecting the mixing channel groove and the additional gas channel groove,
The partition wall existing between the additional gas flow channel and the gas additional mixing flow channel in the stacking direction includes the additional gas flow channel groove and the additional mixing flow channel groove in the stacking direction of the base substrate. Formed by the part located between
The isolation wall that exists between the gas additional mixing channel and the fluid cooling channel in the stacking direction is formed by a portion of the gas channel substrate that is adjacent to the additional mixing channel groove in the stacking direction. Reliquefaction equipment. The reliquefaction device according to claim 12 or 13,
The gas additional mixing channel is provided independently of the fluid cooling channel by being adjacent to the fluid cooling channel via an isolation wall existing between the gas cooling channel and the fluid cooling channel in the stacking direction. Connected to the downstream end of the mixing channel so as to extend continuously from the mixing channel,
The fluid cooling flow path is formed by indirect heat exchange between the gas additional mixed fluid flowing through the gas additional mixing flow path and the fluid cooling refrigerant through the isolation wall. The fluid cooling refrigerant flows so that the re-liquefaction of the re-liquefaction additional target gas contained in the gas additional mixed fluid flowing through the gas additional mixing flow channel is promoted by cooling the flowing gas additional mixed fluid. Re-liquefaction equipment that allows

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